ARDE
“ARDE has always been about pushing the boundaries of responsible design,” says founder René Hougaard. With a Master’s Degree in Architecture and Design combined with many years of experience within the furniture industry, including a tenure at BoConcept, ARDE creates designs founded in professional knowledge and made for everyday use. With a strong passion to innovate with materials, new technology and manufacturing processes, his designs are not only beautiful but responsibly made.
Helena Christensen in conversation with ARDE
The Design Interview
A new design philosophy
René Hougaard is interested in pushing the boundaries of what is possible with good design. “The Aarhus sofa began with a simple question: How can we rethink how sofas are made, especially when it comes to sustainability?” He started looking at how furniture was built 100 years ago. “Back then, comfort didn’t come from foam – it came from clever construction, with springs and natural materials. That idea inspired me.”
Growing up with design
René Hougaard was trained in architecture, but his roots in furniture go even deeper. “My grandfather was a cabinetmaker and ran his own furniture factory,” he says. “There’s a strong connection to him in everything I do.” He’s been working with furniture for as long as he can remember. “I think I made my first piece when I was about 12. I clearly remember building a desk for myself. That was the beginning.”
Circular thinking
At the heart of the Aarhus sofa is an approach rooted in circularity. Constructed without glue to allow for the internal structure to be easily disassembled, components can be repaired, replaced, or ultimately recycled – extending the lifespan of the product significantly. The Aarhus sofa comes with detachable covers and reupholstery options to let you refresh it over time, extend its life and reduce waste.
“ARDE has always been about doing what I feel passionate about. It’s been about pushing boundaries – technically, aesthetically, conceptually.”
